Best HP/TQ for safety/reliability/economy

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by AFP, Nov 26, 2015.

  1. AFP

    AFP Bobtail Member

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    Sep 17, 2015
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    Hey guys, wish you all a happy thanks-giving weekend :)

    I'm hoping this question won't be too controversial, as this is largely a question of opinion. We all have different preferences and comfort zones, and what's right for one may not be right for another. You're not a wussie for wanting low-hp and driving slow, or economically foolish for driving at +70 with 600hp. Fair enough?

    Hypothetical Route:
    Trailer with empty racks going down, let's say 14400 lbs going down, fully loaded with automotive parts like axles on return trip:
    The route is from Cambridge in Ontario, Canada to Ladson in South Carolina, USA.

    [Start Cambride
    HWY-401/HWY-3 Ontario
    I-75 Michigan
    I-75 Ohio
    I-71/I-75 Kentucky
    I-75/I-275/I-640/I-40 Tennessee
    I-40/I-26 North Carolina
    I-26/US-78 South Carlina
    End Ladson]

    Okay: From a historical perspective: It appears the average OTR semi-truck had
    430-HP/1550-TQ
    Most OTR trucks now have
    450-HP/1650-TQ

    I see no reason to back down torque from 1650 to 1550, but I'm wondering about choosing horsepower. Which of these would you choose?
    (These examples are DD13, DD15 and DD16 power ratings, ISX ratings are similar)
    1) 410-HP and 1650 Torque (DD13)
    2) 430-HP and 1650 Torque (DD13)
    3) 450-HP and 1650 Torque (DD13/DD15)
    4) 475-HP and 1650 Torque (DD13/DD15)
    5) 500-HP and 1650 Torque (DD15)
    6) 475-HP and 1850 Torque (DD16)

    Assume an aero-truck(Air Tabs, Flow Below), with a 16-speed direct-drive AMT transmission and low rolling-resistance tires.

    I'm also very interested in your REASONING for your choice, even more than the specific number you might choose. Thanks.
     
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  3. Cory wood

    Cory wood Medium Load Member

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    Nov 7, 2015
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    The 430 1650, that's all you will need for the most part for the bulk of work most people will do. In general the 450 1650 number just to be generic and not be specific on engine is pretty much the most common numbers out there. Owner ops usually want a little more of course as would I if I was still driving. Most all of my fleet as far as aggregate hauling and my flatbeds are all 1450-1650 and everything does just fine and does as expected on fuel.
     
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  4. Dave_in_AZ

    Dave_in_AZ Road Train Member

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    I think they have a DD16 that puts out 625 HP & 2050 ft/lbs of torque.
     
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  5. mountaingote

    mountaingote Road Train Member

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    Sep 22, 2012
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    Take the 475@1850 and you'll be good for anything. Will give you decent economy and still keep you going in the hills
     
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  6. Dave_in_AZ

    Dave_in_AZ Road Train Member

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    I'm a freightliner fan. So when I get a truck of my own, I'm sure it will have the 455HP DD15. I don't think the DD13 has enough cubits for a smog motor. The series 60's that were 430HP worked just fine and got the best fuel mileage.
     
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